Worship Debrief – Modern Day Golden Calves (Jul. 4-5)

On the heels of my “Prepare for Worship” mis-post, we now get to debrief what I inadvertently neglected to tell you was coming. Nothing like being human, huh?

Our Independence Day Celebration included, for those of us in worship, a look at identifying some modern-day idols. Just as the Israelites drifted from God while waiting for Moses to come off the mountain (see Exodus 32), we too can drift from God when He seems to be distant. An idol today is likely to be something that:

1. Reflects the culture;
2. Has a repetitive nature to it;
3. Obscures or competes with God in our lives;
4. Is surrounded by rationalizations or excuses.

Pastor gave us some general examples – categories, really – of idols that we may worship here in the U.S. He called these the gods of:

• Materialism
• Winning/Success
• Self
• Relationships
• Religion

The message concluded with some action steps to helps us avoid the temptation that makes something an idol.

1. FLEE (look for a way out)
2. REPLACE the idol with God
3. ASK for forgiveness and receive His cleansing
4. PRAY

Saturday, 7/4 – 7:00pm:

•          We had Matt leading us again. Trying to make that a once a month thing. Darcy said he did good. Any other feedback?
•          With Matt on guitar, we kind of missed the drums. However, I thought we help the rhythm pretty well.
•          I like when Barb can lead out on songs. “Nothing But the Blood” was a nice change from Matt and I.
•          We came to the rail for communion, which is a bit different in this service. The reasoning was practical (Pastor was on his own), but it got us “out of the box.” I’m wondering if there are other ways we can go “out of the box” at this service.
•          Got to worship with the family tonight…including the 2-year old! It was draining, but it’s always great to have them with me.
•          Hit Anderson’s after the service then went back to Niagara Falls (Hyde Park) for fireworks. Things were a little crazy getting to the church, but after that I think we had a pretty good celebration.

Sunday, 1/11 – 11:15am:

•          Took the day off to relax at home as a family. It was much needed, especially with late nights for the boys Friday and Saturday. Thanks for allowing me to do so!
•          Had a light band this week…kept shrinking as the week went on last week. They sounded good at practice. How were they in service?
•          Any fun stories from worship? Since I wasn’t there, I’d love to hear the feedback! How did the Camp Pioneer staff do?

Look for another post tomorrow that shows some application from the sermon this week. Then think and tell me how you go about pulling down the idols that have crept up in your life.